A painful condition that is known as an ingrown toenail occurs when the outer edge of the toenail grows into the surrounding skin. Some of the symptoms that are associated with this ailment can include pain, redness, and tenderness at the edge of the toe. In severe cases, there may be a discharge that drains from the affected area. Ingrown toenails are a common malady, and can be caused for a variety of reasons. These can consist of toenails that are not trimmed correctly, or wearing shoes that do not have ample room for the toes to move freely in. Additionally, an ingrown toenail may develop if an injury has happened to the toe. Moderate relief may be found when the feet are washed and dried on a daily basis, followed by using a small piece of cotton to gently move the skin away from the nail. Another method is nail avulsion, which is a surgery that is performed to remove the affected toenail. If you have an ingrown toenail, it is strongly advised that you counsel with a podiatrist who can help you to find relief.

Ingrown toenails may initially present themselves as a minor discomfort, but they may progress into an infection in the skin without proper treatment. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact Matthew McQuaid, DPM of Lake Mendocino Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails are caused when the corner or side of a toenail grows into the soft flesh surrounding it. They often result in redness, swelling, pain, and in some cases, infection. This condition typically affects the big toe and may recur if it is not treated properly.

Causes

• Improper toenail trimming
• Genetics
• Improper shoe fitting
• Injury from pedicures or nail picking
• Abnormal gait
• Poor hygiene

You are more likely to develop an ingrown toenail if you are obese, have diabetes, arthritis, or have any fungal infection in your nails. Additionally, people who have foot or toe deformities are at a higher risk of developing an ingrown toenail.

Symptoms

Some symptoms of ingrown toenails are redness, swelling, and pain. In rare cases, there may be a yellowish drainage coming from the nail.

Treatment

Ignoring an ingrown toenail can have serious complications. Infections of the nail border can progress to a deeper soft-tissue infection, which can then turn into a bone infection. You should always speak with your podiatrist if you suspect you have an ingrown toenail, especially if you have diabetes or poor circulation.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Lakeport and Ukiah, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.